Ten Years Ago: three points off the Hatters

Charlton were away at Luton on Sunday 29th October 1995. My notes recall, 'Drove down to Luton for match: nice, clear day. Nelson scored in the 16th minute, a simple tap into the goal I was behind. As always, a Charlton victory gave me an inner glow, although our performance against a weak team was not that great.'

The programme contained a picture of a hirusite Derek Hales, recalling that he had left part-time Dartford and a job in the Post Office (!?) to go full time at Kenilworth Road. After five full appearances, he was allowed to go to the Addicks on loan, finally signing for them for £4,000.

The programme also salivated over the signing of striker Vidar Riseth for £100,000 from Norway's Kongsvinger. He joined giant but hesitant American keeper Ian Feuer, Australian David Oldfield and Bulgarian Bontcho Geuntchev. All names to conjure with.

Charlton find themselves in more illustrious company today. What's that Villa fan doing in a Charlton shirt? It's the heir to the throne.